1. American Dream Symbolism: The house represents the American Dream that Willy has always pursued but never truly attained. It is a physical manifestation of his desire for success, wealth, and social status. Willy sees owning a house as a symbol of his self-worth and the fulfillment of his dreams.
2. Materialistic Value: The house is depicted as a symbol of material possessions and financial success. Willy places a high value on the house, believing that it will provide security and happiness for his family. However, his focus on material wealth blinds him to the emotional and spiritual well-being of his loved ones.
3. Unrealistic Expectations: Willy's dream of owning a house is fueled by his unrealistic expectations of himself and his sons, Biff and Happy. He projects his failures onto them, expecting them to achieve what he could not. The house becomes a symbol of these unrealistic expectations and the pressure they put on Willy and his family.
4. Confined Space: The house can be seen as a metaphor for Willy's limited thinking and trapped existence. It represents his inability to break free from his self-imposed limitations and confront the harsh realities of life. The house becomes a confining space that suffocates his dreams and prevents him from achieving true fulfillment.
5. Loss of Identity: As the play progresses, the house becomes a symbol of Willy's loss of identity and self-worth. He feels disconnected from his family, his job, and his place in the world. The house, which was once a symbol of his aspirations, now represents his fading hopes and the emptiness of his life.
6. Mortgage Symbolism: The mortgage on the house weighs heavily on Willy, representing the burden of his financial struggles and the pressure to maintain a façade of success. The mortgage becomes a symbol of his debt to society and his failure to achieve the financial security he had hoped for.
7. The "Jungle": Willy often perceives the outside world as a "jungle," a place of fierce competition and ruthless survival. The house, in contrast, represents a semblance of order and safety. However, as Willy's grip on reality loosens, the house itself starts to feel like a jungle, reflecting his internal chaos and growing sense of isolation and entrapment.
In conclusion, the house in "Death of a Salesman" serves as a powerful symbol of Willy Loman's aspirations, delusions, and eventual downfall. It represents his unwavering belief in the American Dream, his obsession with material possessions, his unrealistic expectations, and the sense of confinement that ultimately leads to his tragic demise.